Exhibiting the kind of impression that you truly want to give? When conducting business, including business-related social events, ensure that your appearance, wardrobe and grooming are exhibiting the kind of impression that you truly mean to give to others, especially your competition!

As you have become more aware of mannerisms and communication styles in others, what are some of their techniques that you could adopt that would make a good impression?

Share interesting stories. Are you comfortable initiating conversations with people you have never met when attending a networking event? What interesting stories can you prepare ahead of time? First, do a self-assessment. What is interesting about you that you can share with others? Include talents and interests unrelated to your job but that others can relate to. These could include your passion for writing, fundraising, organizational skills, creativity, etc. It is not all about “what” you do but “who” you are as a person!

What goal did you accomplish that they may be interested in? What appropriate family stories or experiences have you had that they can relate to? Practice a few real-life stories ahead of time so your conversation will flow naturally. Adjust the level of formality depending on who you are talking to, their type of business, and type of product or service you are offering.

What specifically are you are doing, or have done, that will make you interesting? Engaging? Or that validates your experience, knowledge and why you stand above your competition? Practice the script until it flows, sounds confident, and depicts the true nature of your business and capabilities. As you meet new clients and build new business relationships, be intent on presenting yourself in a positive manner, upbeat and confident about your work and life.

Write out and practice introducing yourself to a variety of individuals from various industries. What are the key points you will mention?
While thinking about these newly prepared introductions, assess the results of your interactions. After you leave the event, remember how comfortable you were and how others responded to you. Depending on how successful those conversations went, modify your introductions and stories accordingly. Could you ask other attendees more questions about themselves and their businesses to keep the ball rolling in a more engaging conversation?

Sharpen your non-verbal signals. What we do with our hands, feet, facial expressions, eyes, and head is critical to the impression others will take away from our conversation and we must ensure those signals match what we say and the meaning we want to convey.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Rita Rocker is a national inspirational and educational speaker, communications and image specialist, and a career and virtual presentations coach with Transformation Academy, LLC.  She is the author of “A Guide to Marketing Yourself for Success”, and a contributing author to “The Unstoppable Woman’s Guide to Emotional Well Being -The Total Woman in Leadership and Success Guide for the Unstoppable Entrepreneur.” She has appeared on national television and radio talk shows on self-esteem and communication. A former Mrs. Nebraska and active in numerous professional organizations, Rita is on the Board of the Small Business Association of the Midlands and co-director of greater Omaha’s Affiliated Women International. Rita provides life and career-transforming programs to mature teens and adults. Contact Rita at rita@transformationacademy.com.

“Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.”

John 19:25 (NIV)

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Do you find yourself searching for funds for your non-profit but coming up empty handed? The options for finding funds are different for non-profits than for businesses. Getting a non-profit off the ground involves a lot of hard work and wise use of resources. Sometimes it takes a lot of creativity to figure out where the money is coming from. Here are a few ideas that are specific to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations.

• Fundraising events: There are so many options – everything from bake sales and taco suppers to formal banquets and walks. Don’t be afraid to try something and then adjust it to what works best for your community.
• Tax credit programs: This donor incentive may be available through your state or local government. Donors can receive a credit on their state taxes for a portion of the donation to your non-profit. As with any government program, paperwork is required and availability varies from state to state.
• Donations: Spread the word about your mission. When people believe in it, want to help you meet a need in the community, and trust the non-profit’s stewardship, you will start to see more donations.
• Sponsor: Ask donors to sponsor the cost of –(fill in the blank)– a day of operations, a client in your program, or part of a special event. Quantifying the donation helps them see exactly where their money is going.
• Grants: There are countless grants available for non-profits. The tricky part is finding the grants that are right for you. Check the eligibility requirements, amount, geographic restrictions, and deadlines when you are searching.
• Client Fees: Depending on the type of non-profit you have, a modest fee schedule for clients may be an option. This is dependent on your community needs, mission, and board decisions.
• In-kind support: This is often invaluable to keep new non-profits afloat. The possibilities are endless. In-kind support includes donations that are not monetary – this can be supplies, volunteer hours, equipment, food, photocopying, photography, professional services, etc. When you are seeking other funds through grants or donations, you have better leverage if you can show strong in-kind support from the community.

What are some other non-profit funding sources you have found to be successful?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Teresa Huff, founder of Adeo Development Solutions, LLC, is a Development Consultant with a Master’s in Education. She works with schools and non-profit organizations to create a sustainable future for our community’s programs. Her services include grant writing and evaluation, strategic planning, curriculum development, and staff training. Stay tuned for her upcoming book Taking the Mystery out of Grant Writing. You can learn more at www.adeodevelopment.com.

Remember the old saying “Good Salesmen are Born”.  Well, anyone can become a good salesperson if they can learn and master the basic sales skills.  Sales techniques have dramatically changed over the years.  Gone are the old school selling methods of talking incessantly and pushing a customer into a sale. 

Selling now involves listening to a customer, making a connection and giving the customer what they need.  Today’s skilled salespeople are self-confident, persuasive, attentive and able to build relationships of trust and respect with the customer.

There are many closing techniques that can be used to make the sale but watch out for the ten sales blunders listed below:

1. Talking Too Much – When trying to make a sale, you need to offer relevant information to the prospect.  You also need to find out what it is they need.  Asking questions and giving the customer plenty of time to answer is a good way to do this and avoid talking too much.  Incessant chattering about the weather, your sales skills, sports or any other irrelevant topic will only leave the prospect confused and disillusioned.  By talking too much about too little, you will most likely lose the sale and the customer.

2. Not Listening to the Customer – Many sales people will be so focused on making the sale, they fail to really listen to what the customers say and need.  You must focus on the customer’s needs so you can find a solution for them.  Ask them questions and listen intently to how they respond so you can identify and fulfill their needs.

3. Immediately Going for the Sale – Do not jump right into the sale.  Take the time to connect and establish a relationship with the prospect.  Let the customer know what your product can do for them and how it can solve their problem.  Show them you are interested in more than just making the sale.

4.  Not Being Prepared – Never meet with a customer unless you are prepared to do so.  Do your research.  Learn as much as you can about your prospect before meeting with them or talking to them.  Know what they need and what you can do to make their life easier.  You want to be able to offer them a solution right away.  Being properly prepared can make a big impression on your prospect and lead to sales.

5.  Not Being in Control – Leading the sales process is very important.  You will need to keep the conversation under your control.  One way to do this is by asking questions.  But you need to ask the right questions.  Get the information you need from the prospect so you know if your product or service will satisfy their needs.  You can then explain to them how you are going to solve their problems.  You want the customer to feel confident that you know what you are doing and what you are talking about.   Being in control of the conversation will do just that.

6.  Not Knowing Your Product – Not learning everything you possibly can about the products you sell is a definite mistake.  When making a sale, you need to educate people on how your product will benefit them and if you don’t know, you will definitely lose the sale.

7. Not Asking Questions – By asking questions, not only will you learn vital information about your prospect, but you will begin to make a connection and start building that all-important relationship.

8.  Not Following Up – Life would be much easier if we could all make the sale in one meeting or one phone call or one email but a lot of the time, it just doesn’t happen.  If the sale does not happen right away, be sure to follow up with the prospect.  Keep in touch so that when they are ready to buy, they buy from you.

9.  Not Focusing – Always be attentive to your prospect and make them feel important.  If you are fidgeting, looking around the room or appearing to be distracted, the customer will feel ignored and unimportant.  This will surely lead to a lost sale.   Always make direct eye contact, focus on the customer and every word that they say so you can deal with their needs.

10.  Not Closing the Sale – Ask for the sale but do it in a non-aggressive manner.  You do not want to come off as pushy or threatening in any way.  Customers sometimes just need a small nudge in order to make a final decision.   Don’t leave the customer just thinking about it.  Ask for and get a commitment!

Sales can be tough so you need to learn the process of how to build relationships, how to talk to people correctly, use proper body language and be prepared.  Be self-confident, persuasive and respectful and don’t make the above blunders.  If you can learn these skills, you can be a good salesperson!

©Terri Seymour
About the Author:  Don’t be one of the 95% of people who fail at their online business.  Terri Seymour can help you make money online.  Find out how to increase your traffic and sales with her popular “How to Build Your Online Business” ebook for FREE at:  ==> http://www.SeymourProducts.com

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Do you want to make some extra money without getting a full-time job? Do you want to create something with which you can earn a little or a lot, to help you fund your vacation plans, become debt-free, or buy a new wardrobe? This “idea generator” will create a stream of income that will change your life!

Write a Book:
This is by far my favorite way to help others create a stream of income that is not only residual (timeless) but fun too! Self-help books are easy to write and are certainly a great income producer.

I have helped thousands of people generate money full-time or part-time by writing and publishing books. Sell only 1000 books a year at $20 per book – that is $20,000 a year! What could that do for your current project or idea?

Cake Decorator:
Love to decorate cakes? Let people know that your cakes are available for weddings and other events. Don’t forget to take pictures so you can show off your work. People like visuals. This will help you sell your services.

Become a Virtual Assistant:
Know how to be an Administrative Assistant? YES, companies need you online. This would involve many aspects of helping a small company run their business through email and the Internet. You can easily charge $25.00 per hour, or by the project – whichever your client prefers. If you put aside one day a week to do this, you can imagine that one 8-hour day times 4 (per month) could easily bring you in an extra $800.00 a month. It’s money that comes free and clear into your home.

Lawn Care Provider:
Lots of people are too busy to care for their lawns. This is just the high-tech version of the “grass-cutting business” you had when you were a kid. If you like to plant flowers, rake lawns, and cut grass, you could have a decent business. This is a wonderful idea for university/college students who need money during the summer months.

Like to Bake?
Another way you can earn extra income is by baking cookies, cakes, etc. Visit businesses and corporations and let them taste-test for free. Take orders and tell them you will be back on YUMMY FRIDAYS with their load of goodies! Let them know that, if they love what they get, tips are always welcome. This could be a fun way to make some money every week.

Daycare/ Childcare Provider:
If you love kids, being a nanny is very rewarding. Have three children at your home, and you can make some extra money. Start a before and after school care program for children of parents who have to go to work but need someone to look after their little ones. Advertise in the schools close to you. This could produce some great income for a couple of hours in the morning and after school; the rest of the day is yours!

Have an Inspirational Quote You’d Like to Share?
Create buttons, cards, and/or bumper stickers and sell them at conferences, in stores, and online. Motivation sells: it might as well be YOU making the money!

Senior Shopping Shuttle:
Take seniors out for a shopping day. If you have a van, you can go to seniors’ homes and take a group for a “drop and shop” pick-up excursion. This is a great way to help others and at the same time help yourself.

Romantic Guitar:
Nothing sounds more romantic than someone who is strumming uplifting ballads quietly on a guitar. This is a great idea to pitch to some of the more “classy” restaurants in your area and ask them to let you give it a try. Go from table to table. You can play for so much an hour PLUS TIPS.

Pet Sitting Service:
Many people need pet sitting. They work long hard hours and their poor darlings are at home “holding it” for far too long. Pet sitting can be as simple as pet walking services or checking in, feeding, and watering people’s pets. Great money-maker for anyone who loves animals.

Housekeeper:
With today’s busy lifestyles, good housekeepers are hard to find. When you do find one you hang onto her. If you like housekeeping, then you can basically set your own schedule. Work part-time or full-time; it is up to you. This is an excellent way to pay off debt, save some money, OR make a living!

Children’s Party Clown:
Love “hamming it up” with children? Put on a clown costume, get out there and make some amazing balloon animals. Play games with the kids and even bring the cake! If you are a funny character, expect other parents to want you for their child’s next birthday.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kathleen Mailer is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Today’s Business Woman magazine, leading an army of women in business. She is a wife, mother, CEO, Itinerant Pastor, Author, Philanthropist, Business Coach and “Canada’s Leading Authority on Self-Publishing.” For more information, visit Kathleen’s site at http://www.kathleenmailer.com.

Recently I stopped by a local florist shop to order an arrangement of blue carnations to be picked up the next day. I pointed to a glass cube vase sitting on the display counter and asked how much to fill that with blue carnations anticipating the next step would be saying ‘Yes’ to placing an order and I’d be on my way. Instead what happened was timely, frustrating for me, and ended with me leaving with no order placed.

This local shop doesn’t carry any fresh flowers. I was told everything’s ordered in. I wanted to order today and pick up tomorrow afternoon so this shouldn’t be a problem. But, they couldn’t give me a price for the arrangement because they didn’t know if the cube vase would hold nine carnations or maybe thirteen. (I’d asked for flowers only, no greens as I like the look of solid flowers with a ribbon around the vase.) Hmm. Sounds like someone wasn’t well versed in their product and my confidence in them was beginning to nosedive.

As for blue carnations, they would need to be tinted. No problem. I realize Mother Nature doesn’t usually provide carnations in this color. Next, as I’m standing there in front of the lady she actually asked me if I could simply place the order online because their supplier would see it, could give an exact price, and would send it ready-made to the floral shop. Umm, I’m standing in front of her and she can’t take my order? Before we ventured any further into the conversation the phone rang and she excused herself to answer it while I excused myself to leave the store.

This made me think about how easy I make the experience of saying ‘Yes’ for my own customers.

People make purchases, of services or products, for three main reasons:

1. To meet an immediate need.
2. To meet a future, anticipated need.
3. Because of a pure want or desire.

A few roadblocks that get in the way of a “Yes” include:

• Wishy-washy information: Give concise, specific information always. If additional time is needed to gather information, set a time when a customer can expect an answer and respond by that time. If the customer is in front of you, excuse yourself for a moment to do the calculations or consult a resource and return promptly.
• Restrictions, conditions, and limits: Limit the number of hoops a customer needs to jump through to work with you. Having policies is important. Simply review each to make certain it’s necessary and if it’s making things easier or harder to work with you. Also, in website checkouts remember that the fewer clicks to place an order, the better.
• Limiting payment types: Determine which payment options your customers would expect you to accept and make an effort to have these options available. Working online, I’d say that accepting credit cards and/or debit cards is a big one. Requiring a customer to open a Paypal account to make a payment to you is a roadblock. See the difference?
• Delivery methods: With the popularity of eReaders when offering an eBook consider giving the choice of receiving this in the popular PDF version or one of the new eReader versions. For services some may be fine with correspondence via email while another may like the option of an occasional phone call or in-person coffee meeting. Which methods would your customers respond to? Are these methods possible with your specific business model and style of working?
• Not knowing a service and/or product inside and out: Be the expert when it comes to your services and products. You owe it to your customers to be their informational guide. Equip them with all the details they need to make an informed decision and instill their trust in you and your business.

Morale of the story: Review your offerings, policies, and how well you know your products and/or services. All team members and representatives of your business need to be on the same page. Make it easy to say ‘Yes’ and I can guarantee you’ll have repeat business.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ruth Martin is the owner of Maplewood Virtual Assistance, LLC (MaplewoodVA), an online business support services firm specializing in online business and project management (OBM), marketing and writing services, and executive level business support. Ruth Martin brings 20+ years of business management and marketing experience to each project she touches. And, if it’s nearing the Christmas season, you’ll find her taking on the role of #1 Official Santa Helper aiding Santa in writing letters to children across North America at her seasonal business, U Write Santa.

On my way home from an out-of-town speaking engagement, I noticed a string of cars on the side of the road.  Within a 5-mile stretch of highway, I counted 15 of them.  Each car had been pulled over by different policemen and all were getting tickets.  And there were a few other police cars ready to pounce on the next offender.

The cops were out in full force.

It had been an easy and uneventful drive.  I was listening to some praise music and singing along when I knew the words.   I was thanking God for showing up in such a big way at the event I spoke at that morning.

And then it happened.

I saw those dreaded lights right behind me.  And interestingly enough, the cars in front of me and behind me were experiencing the same thing.

Busted.

When the cop came to my window and asked if I knew why I’d been pulled over, I had no answer.

• I wasn’t speeding
• My plates hadn’t expired
• There was no warrant for my arrest

He explained to me that I was being ticketed for following the car ahead of me too closely.  Really?

There was traffic.  We were all driving the same speed.  No one was on the other’s bumper.  It seemed ridiculous.

As I signed the ticket, he said to me, “Ma’am, we’re in this campaign to raise awareness of the issue of driving too close.  We just want to keep you safe.”  While I was frustrated about the ticket, I realized he was just doing his job.

We should follow his example.

• When our friend thinks flirting with a man other than her husband is innocent, we need to share our concern that she’s getting too close for comfort.
• When our husband isn’t investing time in the kids, we need to let him know he’s getting too close to creating a fractured relationship.
• When our children are hanging out with the wrong crowd, we need to remind them that getting too close will lead to bad choices with big consequences.

Sometimes, we show our compassion for others by raising their awareness of an issue.  We risk facing their anger or frustration because we deeply love them.  We care too much to let them get too close to destruction.

But our approach needs to be gentle and encouraging.

This isn’t the opportunity to slam them.  Don’t do the “I told ya so” dance in front of them.  Jump down from the judgement seat cuz the air is pretty thin up there.  Don’t forget that you’re not all that and a bag of chips either.

Galatians 6:1-2 in the Message says, “Live creatively, friends. If someone falls into sin, forgivingly restore him, saving your critical comments for yourself. You might be needing forgiveness before the day’s out. Stoop down and reach out to those who are oppressed. Share their burdens, and so complete Christ’s law. If you think you are too good for that, you are badly deceived.”

Simply stated, when you are helping others… be humble and tender.

The policeman wasn’t gruff in his reprimand.  His testosterone wasn’t spilling into my vehicle.  He didn’t belittle me for messing up.  No. In a gentle caring spirit, he stopped me from a potentially dangerous situation.

I wonder, is there someone who needs your gentle encouragement today?

• Pray for the right time
• Pray for the right heart
• Pray for the right words

Sisters, there is little more valuable to me than my peeps.  We trust each other’s hearts and motives.  We have each other’s backs.  We want the best for each other.  We don’t allow each other to get too close to destruction.

What a gift.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Carey Scott is an inspirational speaker and writer, honest about her walk with the Lord… stumbles, fumbles and all.  She loves to challenge women to be real, not perfect. Through her blog she encourages women to stop living a mediocre, risk-free life and instead step onto the battlefield of life and engage!  She is a bi-weekly blogger on CWAHM and serves as the Wednesday host on the Moms Together Facebook community. She and her husband live in Colorado with their two kids.

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.”

Psalm 139:13 (NIV)

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To Read This Week: 1 Kings 18

Thinking Through It All

Today we talked about faith. I’d love to discuss the following in the comments section below:

* Is there some area where you need to step out?

* How can we be praying for you?
(You can post prayer requests below or send your request in here)

Comment Below!

Isaiah 40:31

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“Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him.”

Genesis 21:2 (NIV)

Do you feel that your energy level is right where you want it, or do you often scan the women’s magazine rack for the newest ideas on perking up?  If you are anything like the millions of other women just like you, sometimes you need a fresh start in your get-up-and-go!

So how to go about gaining that “magic” we call energy?  Well, would you believe it’s as easy as swapping out some of your not-so-super food choices for ones that are natural energy-boosters?  It is, and here’s a quick list for easy reference:

1.       Eggs – these choline-packed energy-makers come any way you like them; boiled, over-easy, scrambled, or diced into salads!  The yokes, once the hot topic of the concerned citizens for high cholesterol, are cleared as healthy once again by the nutritional community.  They are especially high in Vitamin B, one of nature’s most powerful energy producers!

2.       Broccoli – This rich-green veggie is high in many goodies, but the best one for energy is magnesium (now you know why good-ole mom made you eat them as a kid!)

3.       Seeds – Flaxseed, sunflower & pumpkin seeds are great options to increase energy naturally in your body through the good fats and protein they include!

4.       Avocado – This is a work-from-home mom staple, as it has the components of a “perfect” food in ONE fruit.  High in fiber, good fats, AND protein make this little guy a must-have!  Slice it up on whole wheat sandwich, or serve it over soup, salad, or tossed into a salsa!  So many ways beyond guacamole to eat this super-duper food!

5.       Black beans – Or any beans for that matter!  These powerhouses are loaded with protein and their fiber count is high, making them a double-whammy for your digestive system, clearing toxins, waste, and foggy brain!

6.       Banana – Slice this popular fruit over peanut buttered toast and you’ll have an energy sandwich!  Makes a great quick breakfast or snack.  They are also a great addition to any healthy smoothie; adding creaminess, potassium, and natural protein!

7.       Sweet potato – Baked, roasted, or swirled into a sweet smoothie, this powerful antioxidant is good for your energy in so many ways!  Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium are just some of the rich benefits in this tuber that work to naturally increase your energy!

These are just a few of the expansive list of foods God provided for us to naturally get our energy from!  All of the whole foods available on your grocery store shelves are direct sources of all the energy your body needs.  So next time you are beginning to drag a little, reach for one of these items instead of that second cup of caffeine!

To find more ideas on eating healthy and achieving natural wholeness, visit these articles at The Intentional Lifestyle.  Your best health is waiting for you!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  Bess Blanco is the passionate Food & Family Health Coach behind The Intentional Lifestyle, a whole-family guide for balanced health!   Bess serves busy individuals and families by bringing together her collective experience and research, offering real and effective strategies for living whole, healthier lives.  Happily married to Juan for fifteen years, Bess takes joy in raising their four young children with him to know God and love people.  You can find out more about Bess and the Lifestyle at http://www.theintentionallifestyle.com.

Mobile applications can inspire busy moms like us in more ways than we can imagine. If you’re a devoted mom, wife, and Christian like me, just think about how often you think “I can’t accomplish everything” throughout your day. That’s why smart phone apps that we can take with us on the go are extremely beneficial when we need a little inspirational push in order to motivate ourselves into positive action.

Inspiration and motivation comes to each and every one of us in many forms. That’s why I put together a varied collection of Christian-focused tools that share inspirational music, words of wisdom, uplifting images, and even advice that concentrates on the Christian family.

So let’s check out the most inspirational, motivational mobile apps specifically for busy Christian moms…

1. NTR Weekly (Free – for iPhone or iPad)

The NRT Weekly application provides dynamic, real-time inspiration via the latest in Christian music. Fans of NewReleaseTuesday.com are in for a real treat as this app treats the senses to the newest music releases as well as the latest music videos. It also provides inspiration from the artists themselves in the form of intimate interviews. NRT Weekly is really a 24/7 source of Christian music radio inspiration—plus you can bookmark your favorite tunes and interviews so you can share them with your family or listen to them whenever you need a personal pick-me-up!

2. Proverbs in a Month (Free – for iPhone)

The Proverbs in a Month app gives you access to the entire book of Proverbs for when you need it most. Read a chapter a day, for 31 days to keep yourself on the righteous path. This app will automatically bookmark where you left off. With proverbs beautifully and artistically set on a different and relevant motivational photo every day—moms can read and glean wisdom wherever they go from the greatest guidebook ever written.

3. iChristianCircle (Free – for Android)

When I first bought my T-Mobile Android Samsung phone the iChristianCircle app was the very first one I downloaded—and I’m glad I did! This app provided me with the perfect support system whenever I felt in need (i.e., if I doubted my abilities as a mother) I would seek advice from this wonderful community of Christians to ask questions when I had doubts, share prayer requests when I needed comfort, and even to discuss parenting concerns or share information when it came to homeschooling or activities for my kids. I even use this app to keep my own private Christian journal, and since it’s on my mobile phone I can add an entry when inspiration strikes.

4. Church Signs ($1.99 – for iPhone)

My kids and I are often inspired by the simple, profound messages displayed on church signage. When you drive past it’s impossible to disregard God’s loving messages spelled out in front of a lovely church setting. The Church Signs app spreads the word of Our Lord, featuring a beautiful collection of motivational signage shot from around the country at various church locations.

5. Daily Broadcast – Focus on the Family (Free – for Android)

The Daily Broadcast from Focus on the Family provides a daily dose of advice and encouragement, centered on the family, and puts it right in the palm of your hand! This free app delivers a daily broadcast right to your Android device so you can listen to the heartwarming anecdotes and inspirational topics (from hosts Jim Daly, John Fuller and Dr. Juli Slattery). The Focus on the Family radio show focuses on themes of marriage, relationships, parenting, and responsibilities for Christians in current society.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jane Johnson is a staff writer for GoingCellular, a popular site that provides cell phone news , commentary, reviews.

Is something keeping you up at night?  Do you feel passionate about a controversial topic? Do you think that your idea should be shared so that others can react to it?

Consider letting your community know what’s on your mind by writing an op-ed piece.  An opposite-editorials lets you share your thoughts with readers. Take some time to study a few of these in your city’s newspaper and then read along; you’ll figure out just how such an article can be written by you.

First, choose your timely topic—Linking your article to something that happened recently in the news is a great way to start. If a celebrity did or said something pertaining to your topic, even better.  Use that celebrity’s actions to grab your readers’ attention.

Choose a solo point to argue—You can’t solve all the world’s problems in one article of 500-750 words (the length of most op-ed pieces). Pack a punch with one idea by offering it in the first paragraph and then use the rest of your piece to back it up and prove your points.

Create a hook—The best way to start so that readers want to read more, is to create that hook which will draw them into the rest of what you have to say.

Share points —You want readers to care and you need to show them why they should care about your opinion.  “The Atlantic Ocean is being polluted by toxic waste which means when you go to the beach this summer, you’re not going to be able to jump in the waves.” What?! No swimming during my vacation?  That will make all those with plans for a beach trip wonder what is going on.

Use the active voice— Use phrases like “I think” instead of “It is thought”.

Make your article appealing—Bring it to life with clear sentences free of jargon and clichés, and don’t be afraid to let your personality come through. You want your words to shine and motivate, not put people to sleep at the breakfast table. Educate; don’t preach!

Take time to toss in the views of those who oppose your idea—Since there are two or three sides to every argument, you will appear more credible to your readers if you take the time to offer (briefly) what those with opposing views are saying. State them and refute them.

Give it a powerful ending — Summarize your points into a paragraph to make a strong ending.

Edit well, supply an appropriate title, add your contact information at the end, and send it off!  While you might hope to get it into the pages of the New York Times, aim for something a little less difficult.  The NYT gets hundreds of submissions a day and rejects the majority of them.  Your local paper is a much better source to submit your work to.

Happy creating!

Until next time,

Alice

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Alice J. Wisler writes inspirational fiction from her home in Durham, NC. She’s the author of RAIN SONG, HOW SWEET IT IS, HATTERAS GIRL, A WEDDING INVITATION and STILL LIFE IN SHADOWS. She also teaches grief-writing workshops both online and at conferences and next spring her devotional, HOW TO WAKE UP IN THE MORNING: Reflections of Comfort in Heartache, will be released.

The truth of the matter is, that sometimes with our busy schedules, we have little time left to achieve all of the wonderful plans we have made. For example, you may have a wonderful bible devotional that you would like to do with the kids. However, competing with you is your ‘regular’ school schedule, your work schedule, your church schedule…and a myriad of other things on your to do list. If we are not careful, we can allow our schedule to rule us, rather than us ruling over our schedule.

But, if we are honest, there are days that we simply cannot add on one more thing. So how can we have a Christ centered home and homeschool, in spite of our schedule? I would like to give you a few things that can help you get through those hectic few days. This is in no way a replacement for devotional time with our Lord, however, these ideas will help you and your children keep connected to our Lord Jesus, in spite of your schedules!

Some of these will take some thought ahead of time, maybe just a minute or two, maybe you spend an afternoon doing prep work that you can pull from when the time arises, that is up to you!

1.)  Get an audio bible on CD and play it in the car while you are driving to and from, making sure that everyone is in the bible every day. Or you can play it around the house, while chores are being done. You can then discuss what you listened to, helping your children to listen, as they know there will be a discussion following!

2.)  Grab one verse and post it everywhere, for that week. That will be your family’s memory verse. Post it in the car, on the dining room table, in the bathroom, on the fridge, in the school room, or living room, the kids’ bedroom door, your bedroom door, anywhere you and your family will be at any point during the day. When you are in the car, if you have it posted on both visors, and on the backs of the seats, then all the kids (and you) can use that to practice memorizing the verse.  While you are driving you can expound on the verse, and teach them what the verse means, and help to apply it to their lives.

A great resource for finding verses on topic is the Instruction for Righteousness  Topical Bible from Doorposts!  It is $36, which was a little pricey for me. However, it was well worth the investment. I have used mine for 10 years now!

3.)  Never neglect prayer time! You may not have time to be on your knees in prayer on those especially hectic mornings or days, however, you do have time to be in prayer every day, in fact, throughout the day! I have become a pro at the popcorn prayers! Praying throughout my day, just talking to the Lord about all the affairs of my day. I never want to lose connection with Him. Did you know you can pray with your eyes open? I know that sounds silly, but while you are driving around town, you can be praying, not just silently for your benefit, but out loud, modeling for your children how you are focusing on your relationship with the Lord.  Ask them to pray, they can pray about safety for your journey, or a need that is at hand, and whatever is on their heart. You may be surprised to hear what your child brings to the Lord!

4.)  Do you have an E-Reader? Such as a Kindle or Nook? Do you have one of their applications on your phone to make it an E-Reader?  There is a wonderful Bible app you can load called Olive Tree you can find it in the app store for Nook and on the Android market. It is even available to load onto your PC or Mac! This allows you to take your bible with you wherever you go! While you are waiting for the kids at practice, you can read your bible. Model for your kids, the importance of getting into God’s Word! That is a lesson that will stay with them the rest of their lives!

5.)  On the way home from church, ask them what they learned in class, or if you are all together in family church, ask them what they got out of the lesson. Then use that all week long! Check in with them throughout the week; see how they are applying those lessons to their life.  Have they figured out a way to apply it? Help them learn how to apply it and use it.  All of this can be done while running errands in the car or while shopping. Especially if you have only one child with you while shopping, what a treasured moment, while doing such an ordinary errand!

My prayer is that you will look at this list and perhaps find one or two items that will help you keep your heart, and the hearts of your children centered on the Lord. Or, perhaps, you will be inspired to come up with many other ideas that will work for your family!  If you do, I would love to hear them, please post them in the comments, and let’s help each other stay focused on our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jennifer Southern is a Christian homeschool mother from Southern California.  She has been homeschooling her 5 energetic children, by the grace of God, for 12 years! Her first 2 are set to graduate this year! Jennifer is thankful to have been able to provide a Christian education for her children all of their years. Learning to lean on the Lord has been the cornerstone and what has helped Jennifer to stay the course during the peaks and valleys of homeschooling her children with different learning abilities and and styles.  Join Jennifer on Homeschool by Design where she will share special needs home education tips and tricks, as well as, encouraging you to keep your home and homeschool Christ-centered.

Most conflicts come about because of toxic words (inflammatory language), or at least words that are deemed toxic by the receiver(s).  There is almost always a way to say something without creating a conflict, but it requires grace, understanding your audience, carefully chosen words…and prayer doesn’t hurt either!  This month, I’d like to share with you how we can inflame others–often without knowing it, the result of toxic words and how to detoxify your communication in order to ensure more effective, grace-filled and healthy relationships.

1. Your words can be toxic whether you mean them to or not.
Most of us can recognize when a person is intending to spew hatred, ill-will or start an argument just by the words they use.  Some of the most obvious is foul language, but others are not as obvious. In fact, you may never even know that the other person took offense.  I’m sure you’ve experienced a time or two in your life when you either said or written something that someone took inexplicable offense to.  You had no idea why, but the other person made it painfully clear that he didn’t appreciate whatever it was he interpreted as e-VIL (pronounced with a maniacal tone and accented on the last syllable).

However, I’m equally certain that you’ve experienced a time when you posted or said something for which the other party made no comment and you wondered why.  It may have been because he took offense, but did not take the time to share why.  I’m sure you have done this to others.  You’ve seen a Facebook post that offended you, but instead of taking the time and trouble to open a can of worms by voicing your opposition, you simply ignored it.  You may have even unfriended that person or made a metal note that you didn’t like them because of what they posted. What was it about the post that offended you?  Sometimes it was the topic.  Other times, I’d be willing to bet it was the words they chose to use.

Have you ever had a time in your life where you were offended by something someone implied because of the words they used?  I’d also be willing to bet that there was a time when you had occasion to go back and discuss the issue with that person and found that they hadn’t meant it the way it sounded.  How did you feel about having been upset with them for no reason?  Did you wish you had asked for clarification and avoided months or even years of ill-will?  I’ll bet you did and I’ll bet others have felt the same way about something you once said or posted.

2. What does toxic language do?
The result of toxic words are the ABCs of offense:

* Accuse
Sometimes the words you use will give the other person the impression that you are accusing them of doing something immoral, illegal or otherwise wrong.  Posts that attempt to inform readers of an obscure fact can end up accusing them of evil doing. For example, “XYZ Software ISN’T free!  As Christians, we should have more integrity than that!”

Now the fact that XYZ Software was advertized as free by many different communities including their own website led everyone to believe it was free.  Unfortunately, the small print, which was only on their website and unavailable to the majority of the people who downloaded it from other sites,  was also confusing.  Most people had no earthly idea they were in violation of the developer’s rules nor could most of them figure it out after they read the small print.  However, they most certainly felt that the author of this note had accused them of stealing and being a bad Christian.  I’m sure there would be a backlash of comments from upset post readers.  All this ill-will could have been avoided if the author of the post had chosen her words more carefully.  “Most people don’t know this, but XYZ Software is only free for certain kinds of situations.  You can read their small print here: (www. XYZ Software. Com).”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

* Blame
Other times the words chosen will have the impression you are blaming the other party for something.  “I told you not to leave the door open!”  Now Fred feels as if you are blaming him for Mary’s cat running off.  Bill’s words would have less of a sting if he had asked how it happened instead of jumping to conclusions or simply asking, “Did you leave the door open?  Do you know how she get out?”

* Convict
Sometimes it’s not just the words we choose that are toxic but the venue.  Occasionally, because a comment was made in public, it will not only convict someone of something, but embarrass them as well.  “I’ve left you three messages asking you to give me pay me back for the car repair.”  If Bill had forgotten to repay Sheila, he is now convicted although he never did receive her phone messages.  The problem is that he is now convicted in public and likely embarrassed by his need for her offer to pay for his car repair and the fact that he had forgotten to repay her kindness. In fact, he may even feel Sheila is accusing him of welching on a debt.

It would have been better received had Sheila had simply asked him if he had received her phone messages.  Then Bill could have taken her aside to explain and make arrangements.  Another option would have been to pull Bill aside and say, “I never did receive your check for the money I loaned you to repair your car.”  That would have given Bill the chance to apologize and rectify the situation.

3. How can you detoxify your communication?
* Check your attitude
The first step in detoxifying your communication or your words is to check your attitude before you speak. Are you angry with someone right now?  Make sure you don’t take it out on those around you.  Take care not to spill your venom all over the innocent.

* Soften your voice
Whether you are upset, hurried, harried or just naturally gruff, make your voice soft and gentle.  The Bible has a lot to say on this topic. Here are a few scriptures:

”Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Colossians 4:6

“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Proverbs 16:24

* Relax your face and smile
The saying, “Notify your face” comes to mind.  Some people don’t mean to look mean but they just don’t naturally go through life with a big fat grin on their face.  Others are in a bad mood. Simply relaxing your face and smiling will help you soften your voice and help your attitude.

* Insert a smiley face in your email or Facebook
Those smiley faces are a great invention for email and social media.  Use them!  They help to soften the written word where our “listeners” cannot see our face, hear our tone of voice or see your sparkling eyes and gestures to help them evaluate the meaning behind our words.  Use any characters at your disposal to soften and detoxify your words.

* Choose your words wisely
Finally, choose your words wisely.  Avoid words that inflame: hate, always, never, stupid, idiot, etc.

“You never take me anywhere!”
“You always do this to me!”
“I hate that song!”

Words like “always” and “never” imply that the person does evil things on purpose or has never done anything good.  If you search your heart, you’ll probably find that just isn’t true, but if you use those words, it will always inflame the other party.  ;D

Our words can be toxic whether we intend for them to be or not.  Unfortunately, the effect is the same either way. Our words can inflame, accuse, blame and convict.  However, there is a way to detoxify our communication by checking our attitude at the door, softening our voice, relaxing our face, smiling and choosing our words wisely.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:  JoJo Tabares holds a degree in Speech Communication, but it is her humorous approach to communication skills which has made her a highly sought-after Christian speaker and writer. Her articles appear in homeschool publications, such as Homeschool Enrichment Magazine and The Old Schoolhouse Magazine, which also endorses her Say What You Mean curricula. You can also find JoJo on web sites such as Crosswalk.com and Dr.Laura.com. For more information on communication FUNdamentals and Christian-based communication skills for the whole family, please visit http://www.ArtofEloquence.com

“So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.”

Luke 2:16 (NIV)